Merton's Health and Wellbeing Board (HWB) convened on 24 June 2025, to review a series of infographics summarising the borough's health and care needs, known as the 'Merton Story'. The board also discussed key strategic priorities, including updates to its terms of reference, the Better Care Fund, and the Pharmaceutical Needs Assessment.
The Merton Story is an annual assessment providing a snapshot of local health and care needs. It includes sub-chapters, data dashboards, and summary infographics covering topics such as population demographics, health protection, and healthy places. The HWB reviewed and endorsed the Merton Story Summary Infographic 2024/25, agreeing to promote its use alongside other resources.
Key items on the agenda included the Better Care Fund (BCF) plan for 2025/26, with a total fund value of £26,885,638. The BCF aims to integrate health, housing, and care services, focusing on prevention and independent living. The board also reviewed its terms of reference, last updated in 2015, to reflect changes in organisations, roles, and the introduction of a new Health and Wellbeing Strategy. Proposed changes include updated core principles, responsibilities, and membership lists.
An update on Integrated Care Boards (ICBs) was also presented. The ICB is set to reduce costs by approximately 50% and transition to a strategic commissioning role. Neighbourhood level integration is a key national priority, with a London Target Operating Model for Integrated Neighbourhood Health now published. The business cases for Wilson Hospital and Rowans Park were also discussed, with a review of the clinical case for change underway.
Finally, the board noted the collaborative approach to refreshing the Pharmaceutical Needs Assessment (PNA) and delegated approval of the final PNA to Councillor Peter McCabe (Cabinet Member for Health and Social Care) and Russell Styles (Director of Public Health).